A coordination complex in which the ligands exhibit an octahedral geometry about the central metal ion has the formula, [CoCl₃(NH₃)₃]^-. How many geometric isomers of this compound should exist?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The complex ion has an octahedral geometry, which means that the six ligands are arranged around the central metal ion in an octahedron shape. This shape has three mutually perpendicular twofold axes, four threefold axes, and six mirror planes. The ligands can be arranged in different ways around these axes and planes, giving rise to different geometric isomers. In this case, there are two possible geometric isomers: a cis isomer and a trans isomer. The cis isomer has the three chloride ions and the three ammonia molecules arranged on the same side of the octahedron, while the trans isomer has the chloride ions and the ammonia molecules arranged on opposite sides of the octahedron.

A Coordination Complex in Which the Ligands Exhibit an Octahedral